East Asian countries are working towards closer economic cooperation and integration, following the Asian financial crisis. China has become more supportive of regional integration, hoping to benefit from increased opportunities and stability. However, progress has been slow due to various challenges like differing opinions and levels of development. The author suggests that decision makers in East Asia need to show more political will to implement changes, especially by building trust between China and Japan. Suggestions include speeding up free trade agreement negotiations and monetary integration to promote regional cooperation.